Manic Street Preachers

The boyos have been together since 1986, and still they remain true to themselves and their belief systems; for a while in the early-mid 90s, questions were raised about the band’s ‘authenticity’ and whether or not commercial success was sullying the dream…

The ghost of Richie Edwards continues to loom large, not just via the songs that feature, but via footage of the then young band and an onstage dedication from Nicky Wire. Edwards, nearly 20 years after he disappeared, remains an hugely integral part of the band’s ongoing success and mystique.

With minimum fuss, and featuring regular Brighton-based touring guitarist Wayne Murray, the Manics are in retrospective mode for this tour, but looking as energetic as ever, steaming through a choice selection of cuts from their back catalogue, including many of the hits such as ‘A Design For Life’, ‘La Tristesse Durera’ and a rousing version of ‘You Love Us’.

Thankfully, they change gear with some more reflective tracks from The excellent Rewind The Film album, before stepping on the gas towards the end, finishing off with ‘If You Tolerate This Your Then Children Will Be Next’, a song whose message should resonate more than ever.

As I said, the Manics remain true.

Brighton Centre, 9 April 2014
Rating:
Jeff Hemmings